Barrel Sauna
Almost Heaven Audra 4-Person Barrel Sauna
The Audra is a compact outdoor barrel sauna with a handy front porch for cooling off between rounds. While the manufacturer markets it for up to four people, it is realistically comfortable for two adults sitting upright or one person lying down. It is a solid pick for backyards where space is limited but you still want a traditional, high-heat outdoor setup.
SaunaGrade Buyer's Analysis
The Almost Heaven Audra utilizes 1-3/8-inch thick solid Western red cedar staves, assembled using a traditional ball-and-socket profile. This thickness provides decent insulation for outdoor use in standard climates, though colder winter regions might require the optional heater upgrade to maintain peak temperatures. The wood naturally resists decay and smells great when heated, requiring minimal maintenance beyond occasional cleaning.
Out of the box, the unit relies on a standard 4.5 kW electric heater that demands a dedicated 240V, 30-amp hardwired electrical connection. Plan to hire an electrician if you do not already have outdoor 240V service ready. The heater brings the room up to traditional sweating temperatures (175-185°F) in about 45 to 60 minutes. If you live in a colder climate or want faster heat-up times, upgrading to a 6 kW heater is worth considering.
Assembling the kit takes two people roughly 4 to 6 hours using basic tools like a cordless drill and a rubber mallet. The staves lock together neatly into the weather-resistant plastic support cradles, and stainless steel bands hold the cylindrical structure tight. The 1-foot exterior canopy porch adds a nice functional touch for sitting outside to cool down, though the small exterior benches are strictly for brief rests rather than lounging.
Key Features & Highlights
1-3/8-inch thick solid Western red cedar staves with ball-and-socket joinery
Includes exterior front porch with two small opposing seating benches
Electric heater and sauna stones included in the standard package
Stainless steel bands, hinges, and exterior fasteners for rust resistance
Requires a dedicated 240V, 30-amp hardwired electrical supply
+ Pros
- • Built in the USA from solid Western red cedar with natural decay resistance
- • Handy exterior porch provides a convenient spot to cool off without leaving the footprint
- • Straightforward DIY assembly using pre-cut stave profiles and simple household tools
− Cons
- • Interior benches are too short for an adult to lie down fully flat
- • Requires a dedicated 240V hardwired electrical installation by a professional
Complete Technical Specifications
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